Biographical Sketch

William Gouge was born in Stratford-Bow, in Middlesex County, England, and was educated in Paul's School, London, Felstad in Essex, and at Eton School. He graduated from King's College, Cambridge, where he also taught. He was ordained at the age of 32, and ministered at Blackfriars Church, London for 45 years, where his mid-week expository lectures drew larger and more fervent crowds. Renowned as "the father of the London Divines and the oracle of his time," he was made a member of the Westminster Assembly of Divines by vote of Parliament in 1643. His primary works include his Commentary on Hebrews, The Whole Armour of God, and the conduct book